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Mangu Local Government To Host Victorious Under-13 Team To A Banquet As Paths Are Created For Their Passage To The Top
Dr Matthew Kwarpo, Member representing Mangu South Constituency in the Plateau State House of Assembly, has expressed confidence that young football talents discovered through grassroots competitions could one day represent Nigeria on the global stage.
Dr Kwarpo spoke after Mangu U-13 team defeated Jos South 2-0 to emerge champions of the 2026 U-13 Governor’s Cup in Plateau State.
He described football as deeply rooted in the identity and culture of the people of Mangu, stressing the need for sustained investment in youth sports development.
“This is a great talent that we have in sporting activities, particularly football, and we trust God that some of these children will one day play at the World Cup by the special grace of God,” he said.
Speaking on the future of the young players, the lawmaker said efforts would focus on creating opportunities that would help them develop their football careers.
“The way forward is to continue working with the children and ensure that we create opportunities for them to develop their football careers. We are not going to take this for granted,” he stated.
According to him, stakeholders in Mangu Local Government are planning a dinner in honour of the victorious players, where discussions will also centre on strategies to support their long-term football development.
Dr Kwarpo noted that football excellence has become part of the culture of the people of Mangu.
“It is in the blood. Football skill is in the blood of the people of Mangu Local Government. We play football and focus on sports that unite people.
We do not encourage anything that brings chaos. We always want to give our best in sports,” he said.
The lawmaker further disclosed that the Plateau State Government had already approved projects aimed at boosting sports development in the local government area, including plans for a modern stadium and improved sporting facilities.
“His Excellency has already approved projects that will be executed in Mangu Local Government. We are going to have a very good stadium and other facilities that will help sports continue to thrive,” he noted.
Credit: Nathaniel Mobolade
